Description

A clinical trial assistant is an administrative position which is employed primarily by universities and drug manufacturing companies. The trial assistant takes on tasks involving proper documentation of participants, disseminating necessary information, assisting researchers in setting up trials, and facilitating smooth progress of these studies and experiments.Clinical trial assistants are also employed by lead scientists to help facilitate studies. They may be required to help gather trial participants via advertising and online postings and must ensure that the demographics of participants match those required by the trial. They also gather necessary paperwork, including consent forms, from participants and file them securely in a manner that adheres to all laws and regulations and protects the confidentiality of participants.Clinical trial assistants also help with basic aspects of the trial itself, which may include the dissemination of trial medication or placebos under laboratory supervision. The study will likely require the accumulation of participant data, so the assistant must help secure these measurements by adding them to spreadsheets or study data sheets for lead researchers to utilize.The requirements are fairly flexible to work as a clinical trial assistant. At a university level, most schools prefer students who are actively enrolled in a relevant discipline to the trials being conducted. For food or drug clinical trials, applicants must typically have some background in administrative employment, and may also need some college or post-secondary training, as well. They generally work in both laboratory and office environments during traditional weekly business hours.

Roles & Responsibilities

As a Clinical Trial Assistant with 6-9 years of experience in Australia, your main responsibilities include:

  • Coordinate and manage all aspects of clinical trial operations, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and study protocols. You will oversee the smooth execution of clinical trials, ensuring adherence to regulations and protocols.
  • Manage trial documentation, including preparation, review, and maintenance of essential study documents. You will handle the organization and maintenance of trial documents, ensuring accuracy and accessibility.
  • Assist in the recruitment and selection of study participants, ensuring appropriate screening and enrollment. You will contribute to the identification and selection of suitable participants, ensuring compliance with eligibility criteria.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including investigators, sponsors, and vendors, to facilitate study activities.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For a Clinical Trial Assistant, the following qualifications are required:

  • Excellent organizational skills to manage and maintain trial documents, including protocols, informed consent forms, and regulatory submissions.
  • Strong attention to detail to ensure accurate data entry and documentation throughout the trial process.
  • Good communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with investigators, study coordinators, and other healthcare professionals involved in the trial.
  • Proficiency in computer software and database management to handle electronic records, track data, and generate reports as required.

Essential Skills For Clinical Trial Assistant

1

Clinical Research

2

Clinical Study Reports

3

Research and Analysis

4

Quantitative Research

5

Research Methods

Career Prospects

The role of a Clinical Trial Assistant is crucial in supporting clinical trials and ensuring their smooth operation. With 6-9 years of experience in Australia's clinical research industry, professionals can explore various alternative roles. Here are four options to consider:

  • Clinical Research Coordinator: A position involving coordinating and overseeing all aspects of clinical research studies, ensuring compliance with regulations and protocols.
  • Clinical Data Manager: A role focused on managing and analyzing clinical trial data, ensuring accuracy, integrity, and adherence to data standards.
  • Clinical Project Manager: A position that involves overseeing multiple clinical trials, managing timelines, budgets, and resources to ensure successful trial execution.
  • Clinical Research Associate: A role that involves monitoring and managing clinical trial sites, ensuring compliance, data integrity, and patient safety.

How to Learn

The role of Clinical Trial Assistant in Australia is projected to exhibit a significant growth in the market. According to a 10-year analysis, the job role is expected to witness a steady rise in employment opportunities over the coming years. With the increasing focus on medical research and the development of new treatments, the demand for clinical trial assistants is anticipated to grow. The availability of employment opportunities in this field is expected to be promising, providing individuals with lucrative career prospects in Australia.